Books
by Kent Haruf
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Our Souls at Night |
Addie and Louis are neighbours, both widowed, with children gone. Why should they both be lonely? Addie's unlikely solution to this question is the theme of this heart-warming little book. Up against the disapproval of neighbours and a bullying son will they have the courage to stick to their survival tactic? I'm not telling, but it is a good story and because I enjoyed the pared-down, evocative prose I forgave it for being, maybe, slightly simplistic.
(Annabel Bedini - bwl 86 Autumn 2017) |
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Our Souls at Night |
A strange little book, which has since been made into a Netflix film. A very easy read with short chapters and simple language. However, there is no punctuation to indicate dialogue which takes a bit of getting used to. Basically it's a touching love story about two elderly and lonely neighbours (both widowed) in small town America, and raises many questions about friendship and family loyalties. Perfect as a holiday read - (but avoid saying the title out loud quickly to anyone of a sensitive disposition!).
(Mary Standing - bwl 89 Summer 2018) |
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Plainsong |
Set in a small town on the edge of the Colorado Plains this simple, heartbreaking but hopeful story is beautifully told in bare, unsentimental prose reflecting the unadorned melody of the title. As well as a coming of age story, it's about the austerity of life, loneliness, the search for love and the changing nature of families. The characters are so well drawn that they live on well after you've finished the book. A wonderful read!
(Denise Lewis - bwl 78 Autumn 2015) |
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